Wanted to have a unit of these guys to represent the 78th Fraser's Highlanders who were present at the Siege of Louisbourg - the scenario I hope to use with Rebels and Patriots. They painted up pretty quickly as they have minimal uniform details to paint - most of the jacket lacing being obscured by the great kilt. Used a simplified version of the "Government Pattern" tartan - as it seems it was the most-commonly pattern worn by Highland units.
Although they appear to be in only two poses, there are actually four poses - with very slight detail differences. I do wish there was a firing pose though.
The buff facings were worn by the 78th Fraser's Highlanders as well as the 42nd Black Watch prior to them changing to blue after being made a Royal regiment in 1758. The 42nd still wore buff facings for most of their time in the F&IW - including the Battle of Ticonderoga.
An 005 Micron pen was used to add black stripes inside of the larger green stripes. They're not that discernable, but seems to improve the overall look. The pattern itself is painted for effect rather than accuracy - that is, the green stripes are probably spaced a bit too far apart, but at arms-length it looks okay and I think if the lines were closer it would look too "busy." Same as the stocking pattern - that's my excuse and I'm sticking with it.
They were painted the usual way - block painting and Minwax staining - followed by some highlighting.
Next are some Brigade Games F&IW Rangers, and French Marines and Militia. Thanks for checking out the blog, and wishhing you all good health.
Smashing work, Dean! Using the micron pen is a handy tip.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the kind words again Jonathan. Warmest regards, Dean
DeleteBonnie looking they are, Dean. The unit will do wonderfully on the table. You really are busy with painting and play.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Joe! Mostly painting - had to pass up another Saga game day today as I'm not feeling 100% yet. Warmest regards, Dean
DeleteGreat looking Highlanders and excellent tartan, I've got a mostly Highlander Montrose army sitting in a box for fear of tartan, I might pinch your pen trick!
ReplyDeleteBest Iain
Thanks, Iain. I wouldn't worry to much about painting tartan - just go for it. Not sure the pattern(s) for Montrose's army, but the Govt pattern is pretty simple - if painted for effect over accuracy. Warmest regards, Dean
DeleteGreat work Dean - I of course have a penchant for any Scots troops! You are 100% right about painting tartan - it isn't possible to paint it accurately in these small scales, the best you can hope for is a representative or "impressionist" style - and yours looks great!
ReplyDeleteI did not know that about the Black Watch facing colours - you learn something new every day - the 78th remained buff right through their service - later on, one of their sobriquets was "The Ross-shire Buffs" from the area of the highlands they recruited in!
Thanks for the kind words, Keith. There is a unit of Fraser's up north in Vancouver, B.C. I met the Regimental SGM a few years ago at a gaming convention up there. He wore the Fraser pattern kilt - a bit rust colored overall. Warmest regards, Dean
DeleteLovely work as always Dean!
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot, Michal! Warmest regards, Dean
DeleteSuperb additions Dean, I painted some many moons ago for my Ticonderoga game!
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot, Matt! BTW, a local gamer here, David B., visted with you at your inn. He posted his visit with great comments of your hospitablity on our gaming group FB - Northwest Historical Miniatures Gaming Society. Best regards, Dean
DeleteAmazing work. Tartan is a nightmare, but what a great tip about the pen.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Richard. Appreciate the visit and kind words. Warmest regards, Dean
DeleteA fine body of men, Dean!
ReplyDeleteThanks a lot, Ray! Best regards, Dean
DeleteThose look great Dean.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much, Stu! Kindest regards, Dean
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